What is the best time of year to go on a safari?

It is possible to go on safari at any time of the year. However for most visitors an African safari is a once in a lifetime experience and they want to maximise their game viewing experience. African safari areas each have their own unique seasons and the benefits of travelling at different times of the year need to be weighed up according to your unique individual needs and desires.  It is best to speak to a professional and experienced tour operator like Africa Exclusive – who can tailor make your itinerary.

Is Africa a good destination for families / how old must children be?

Africa offers great value for families and is one of the most exciting and rewarding holidays you will ever take. Although some of the camps and lodges do not take children under twelve years and children under five years are generally not allowed on game drives (or you may be required to reserve a private vehicle), it also depends on the maturity of the child.  They need to be able to sit quietly in an open vehicle and behave when sharing a small camp with adults and not wander off on their own.  They will also need to obey the instructions of your safari guide if you go into the bush on foot or by boat. Africa Exclusive will advise you on the best options for your family safari.

Is Africa safe?

Yes, Africa is as safe as any other travel destination. Safari destinations are usually a long way from human habitation.  Your safety is of paramount importance. When you are with a trained guide you have absolutely nothing to worry about.  Your guide is trained to understand the animal’s behaviour, and will never put his guests in any threatening situation.

Do I need a visa?

Firstly, you need to ensure that your passports are valid for at least six months AFTER you leave Africa and that you have the correct visas.  It is wise to check with the relevant consulate before travel as the visa requirements are constantly changing. We will be happy to advise you on your visa requirements.

It is also advisable to take photocopies of all your important documents, e.g. passports, air tickets, visas and credit cards and keep them separate to the original documents.  In the event of loss of any of the original documents whilst travelling, replacement will be much easier.

What about vaccinations and malaria?

Travellers to Africa should start with basic long term health protection and includes vaccinations against Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Yellow Fever. It is compulsory in Kenya and Tanzania to be vaccinated for Yellow Fever. You may be asked for an inoculation card on arrival at the airport.

Naturally malaria is also a concern; however in safari areas, malaria medication has proven to be effective for adults and children with few and many times no side effects. Malarone is usually the medication of choice and is available on prescription for your GP.  A paediatric formula has been developed for children weighing 33lbs and over. There are non – malarial safari destinations – South Africa being the most popular choice for younger families.  We advise you to consult your GP or local travel clinic regarding malaria medication and inoculation requirements at least four weeks prior to travel.

What type of clothes should I pack for my safari?

We recommend only packing casual clothes, unless you are going on a luxury rail journey or staying at a luxury city hotel where formal attire is compulsory at dinner etc. We do not recommend taking brightly coloured clothing – traditional safari colours like khaki and beige are best.  We do not recommend wearing camouflage or military style clothing.  Here is a list of recommendations:

• Good quality sunglasses with good UV protection – preferably polarised
• Bush hat
• T-shirt and long sleeve cotton shirt
• Shorts
• Long trousers
• Underwear and socks
• Walking shoes (trainers are fine)
• Flip flops or light slip on shoes
• Sweater/jersey
• Jacket (fleece is good) – recommended for cold mornings
• Swimming costume
• Water proof jacket if you are travelling in the rainy season
• Camera equipment
• Binoculars
• A good torch
• Anti  malarial tablets
• Basic medical kit (aspirin, plasters, antiseptic cream, antihistamine, rehydration sachets, Imodium)
• Soap
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Moisturising cream
• Insect repellent
• Personal toiletries, tissues and wet wipes ( and small amount of washing powder for underwear)
• Towel (optional as towels are provided)
• If you wear contact lenses we recommend taking a pair of spectacles in case of eye irritation from dust
• A small rucksack or waist bag for use on walks and game drives

Are there laundry facilities available on safari?

Most camps offer laundry facilities, however this is often limited due to water restrictions.  It is also worth noting that underwear is not included in the laundry service due to local traditions.

How much luggage can I take?

Strict weight restrictions apply on light aircraft flights because most airfields are 3000 ft above sea level and located in the tropics – therefore the permissible aircraft carrying capacity is reduced.  The aircraft also have physical space restrictions so only soft holdalls are accepted (no hard rigid suitcases) with maximum dimensions of 25cm wide x 30cm high x 62cm in length.  As with any worldwide travel there is a risk of theft from checked in baggage.  We recommend that you do not travel with items of high value and to purchase suitable locks for your luggage to deter opportunistic theft.

Generally the following weight restrictions apply (these weights may vary – your safari co-ordinator will be able to confirm :

• 12kg on Zimbabwe safari
• 15kg on Malawi safari
• 20kg on Botswana safari, Namibia safari, South Africa safaris and Zambia safari
• 20kg on Kenya safari

Do I need travel insurance?

There are no health schemes in Africa and visitors are responsible for their own medical expenses. Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory and it is advisable to check that your insurance covers you for medical costs in the unlikely event that you incur them, and repatriation is necessary.  Remember to take the details with you.

What type of food is served on safari?

The quality of food served on is excellent and most visitors are very impressed with the quality and quantity.  Some of the camps provide the same quality and presentation of food as you would get in a five star hotel in any top city.  Camps will also cater for special dietary requirements as long as they are informed of your needs in advance.

Is the water in Africa safe to drink?

Tap water is safe to drink in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe but bottled water is available if you prefer. It is best to drink bottled water in the rest of Africa.

Are the animals dangerous?

Wild animals are naturally unpredictable and their behaviour is never guaranteed. However most of them are scared at the sight and smell of humans and will flee rather than attack.  Unprovoked attacks on humans are therefore very rare.  You should never venture out alone, especially at night – always consult with your guide.  Your armed guides have an amazing amount of knowledge about the local wildlife and will accompany you on activities – you should always pay attention to your guide and adhere to any instructions he may give you whilst on your activities.

What happens if we need urgent medical attention whilst on safari in Africa?

All camps have medical emergency kits and even the remotest of camps have communications to summons a doctor or if necessary medical evacuation.

Is there mobile coverage in Africa?

Mobile phone coverage is not guaranteed, especially in the remote areas.  If you must take your mobile phone with you, please have respect for other guests.  In most hotels, camps and lodges, mobile phones are banned in public areas.  They may be used in the privacy of your room or tent, but only to retrieve messages or to dial out.  Phones should be switched off at all other times.  If you are going to an area where there is no mobile coverage and you need to access to a communication you can hire a satellite phone at most airports.

Is tipping compulsory?

Although tipping on safaris, at lodges and camps is always welcomed, it is not compulsory and should be given at your discretion.  It is often best to tip the drivers, guides and lodge manager who will distribute the gratuities amongst the lodge or camp staff.  As a rough estimate you can tip US$5 to $10 for each traveller per day at each camp or lodge.  Tipping at restaurants is usually 10%.

How much money should I take with me on safari? Can I use my credit card and what currency should I use?

You will need very little spending money on most safaris as the majority of meals, drinks and activities are included in your itinerary.  You will usually have to pay for lunch, dinner and rinks when you are staying at hotels in cities.  Bills can be settled in US dollars, by traveller’s cheque or credit card – however use may be restricted in small towns and rural areas.  In South Africa the local currency (the Rand) is he preferred currency. Automatic teller machines are situated outside most banks in towns and cities but because Africa can be unpredictable we do not recommend that you rely on ATM for your currency needs.  All major currencies and travellers cheques can be changed into local currency at airports and banks (small bills are best).  Always keep your receipt so that when you depart you can change your money back to your preferred currency.

Is there electricity at the camps?

Remote camps and lodges do not have access to electricity and rely on generators and solar power.  The generators usually run in the morning and afternoons when guests are on activities.  This ensures minimum disturbance.  There is enough power to charge batteries for cameras and video cameras (we advise taking a spare battery, plug and converter).  I most areas you will not be able to use an electric shaver or hairdryer.

What pre-safari reading is recommended? (books available to purchase at http://www.amazon.co.uk)

Okavango Delta safari:

Africa’s Wetland Wilderness by Adrian Bailey

"The focus of this book is the broad delta region, including the panhandle and Moremi Wildlife Reserve and also Lake Ngami".

Okavango – Jewel of the Kalahari by Karen Ross

"A unique portrayal of the lives of an astonishing array of wildlife including bushbabies, egg-eating snakes, fishing owls and lechwe antelope in the African oasis".

The Miracle Rivers – the Okavango and Chobe of Botswana by Peter and Beverly Pickford

"Opening with an introductory essay presenting the authors' ideas on Africa, this book on the Okavanga Delta is structured around the rivers that give life to the Delta and consists of short essays which directly relate to the accompanying photographs".

Wild about the Okavango by Duncan Butchart

"This text is part of a series of all-in-one field guides to the common plants and animals of specific regions. Over 300 species descriptions, and information on the geology, climate and habitats specific to each area, are contained in each guide. Tips on watching and identifying wildlife aim to make it easier for readers to identify the birds, animals, snakes and other reptiles, frogs, fishes, insects and plants on their doorstep, whether in the wild, or in the city or suburb. Each species account is illustrated with colour photographs, and habitat symbols link each species to its preferred habitat".

Mombo - Okavango’s Place of Plenty by Mike Myers, Penny Hoets and Grant Woodrow

"The authors relate the story of Mombo within the context of Botswana and the Okavango Delta, covering the history of the Mombo Concession and Wildreness Safaris involvement from the early 1990’s; the dynamics of the Okavango Delta and the unique natural systems that sustain it".

Botswana safari:

Botswana – The Insiders Guide by Ian Michler

"The Insiders Guide takes you on a journey through a country that has one of the most vibrant economies in the region and is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene.  It also gives invaluable insight into the life and people, and practical details on the best overland trips you can take, and the ideal camps and lodges for a safari".

Images of a timeless wilderness by Richard Du Toit and Gerald Hinde

"This is a recording of the mysterious cycle of the seasons in this still remote region: the spring rains, the summer floodwaters, the shrinking of the river at mid-year and the dry months of winter before the next rains.  In haunting, luminous images, Du Toit and Hinde capture the moods of this great wild area and portray fascinating encounters between creatures that live there".

Kenya Safari:

Kenya, the Bradt travel guide by Claire Foottit

"Claire Foottits well researched guide is the ideal travel companion.  It covers Kenya’s natural history, culture and conservation in depth.  It also advises on where to see wildlife, from the National Parks to the lesser known regions, an A to Z list of activities, special interests and events to help you create a personal safari experience and adventure options from hot air ballooning to sky diving".

Shadow of Kilimanjaro: On foot across East Africa by Rick Ridgeway

"Ridgeway is an Explorer, adventurer and entrepreneur who takes the reader on a journey – on foot for a month from the summit of Kilimanjaro through the plains of Tsavo, to the sea.  He offers a grounds eye view of East Africa – from how it was before the incursion of Europeans to how it is today".

Malawi safari:

Spectrum Guide to Malawi by John Douglas and Kelly White

"A well written and comprehensive guide to Malawi  with beautiful photographs.  It includes detailed information about the country, its friendly people, wildlife, places of interest, national Parks, cities and towns".

A Guide to the fishes of Lake Malawi by Lewis, Reinthal and Tendall

A comprehensive guide to the 500 or so species of fish in Lake Malawi.

Mozambique safari:

Guide to Mozambique by Mike Slater

A comprehensive guide to Mozambique including maps, photographs and insider information.

Namibia safari:

Skeleton Coast  by Amy Schoeman

"The book covers all aspects of the Skeleton Coast’s intrigue: its geology and elusive minerals, the plants and animals that are adapted to life in a land without water, the stories of countless ships and planes lost on this shore, and the stories of man’s battle against a hostile environment.  The photographs in the book capture the desert and coastline in all its moods".

Rwanda and Uganda:

Spectrum Guide to Uganda by Roger Barnard

Uganda – Bradt Travel Guide by Philip Briggs

Eye of the Storm: Photographic Journey  Across Uganda by Nicholas Michel

"This book represents Uganda as it really is, not just magnificent landscapes, but a portrait of men and women in their daily lives with their emotions, their modesty and compassion".

South Africa safaris:

This is South Africa by Peter Borchert

"Part of an international series embracing exotic travel destinations, this volume explores all aspects of South Africa.  It provides an introduction to the country, its people and its natural riches".

The Kruger National Park – wonders of Eden by Nigel Dennis and Bob Scholes

"A beautiful book of images capturing seven ecological niches.  Each chapter includes information on birds, animals and flora as well as general safari information.  Stunning photography and interesting reading".

Zambia safari:

Bradt Guide to Zambia by Chris McIntyre

"A practical and detailed overview of Zambia, its history, culture, attractions and natural history with colour photographs, local maps and excellent travel information".

The trouble with Africa, stories from a safari camp by Vic Guhrs

"Guhrs’ tales of his experiences in the bush and the people he has met are accompanied by many full colour paintings and sketches in this memoir of life in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley".

Zimbabwe safari:

Victoria Falls and Surrounds, the Insiders Guide by Ian Michler

"Loaded with local knowledge and travel tips, colour photographs and cultural essays, this guide to the Victoria Falls also included listings for nearby safaris destinations in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe".

Bird Guides:

Newman’s Birds of Southern Africa by Kenneth Newman

"A field guide to birds, this title illustrates and describes fully all the birds recorded from the southern seas as well as those of South Africa".

Animal Guides:

The Behaviour Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes

"Drawing on his own extensive fieldwork and on research of many other scientists, Richard Estes describes and explains the behaviour of four major groups of mammals.  Estes’s informative guide is as up to date for the zoologist as it is accessible for the interested onlooker".

Tracks and signs of Southern and East Africa by Chris and Tilde Stuart

"The guide has key identification features showing how to differentiate between similar species, and distribution maps and a list of major parks and reserves".

Signs of the Wild by Clive Walker

"This compact field guide to the identification of Southern African mammals based on their spoor, droppings and skulls has been accepted as the standard work on the subject, offering up to date information on identification through signs.  It also provides illustrations of a number of species including skulls of all carnivores".

Animal Photography:

Running Wild – Dispelling the myth of the African Wild Dog by John McNutt and Lesley Boggs

"This coffee table book includes over 300 superb colour photographs offering a broad picture of the pack’s behaviour, from pack structure to hunting techniques".

The Leopards of Londolozi by Lex Hes

"The leopard is a shy, predominantly nocturnal animal, presenting few opportunities for people to study it and, in its wild state, it is one of the least well known cats.  This is the story of the success of the rangers at Londolozi, in the Sabi sand Game reserve in South Africa, since 1976, in getting close to these animals and charting their lives over this period".

Africa Elephants – A Celebration of Majesty by Daryl and Sharna Balfour

"An illustrated guide to the elephants of Africa.   Colour photographs display a variety of elephant moods and activity in natural habitats in Africa, highlighting in particular their intelligence and social behaviour".

Hunting the Moon – the lions of Savuti by Derek and Beverly Joubert

"Photographs and brief descriptions depict how lions in Botswana hunt and kill their prey at night".

Creatures of Habit – understanding African animal behaviour by Peter Apps and Richard Du Toit

"The book is a guide to the habits of Southern African mammals, arranged by characteristics such as feeding, communication, social living, courtship and many more traits.  It attempts to explain how and why animals do what they do".

Reptile Guides:

Field guides to snakes and other reptiles of Southern Africa by Bill Branch

"A best selling field guide to the reptiles of southern Africa including the countries of Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. It includes information on biology, breeding, subspecies and habitats".